A Note From Our Pastor (July 2015 #2)

Perspective. This is an interesting concept and we should always try to keep perspective especially in a ‘live in the present’ time we find ourselves. With 24 hour news cycles and a bombardment of opinions and commentaries, it is easy to get caught hanging in the balance and failing to remember the lessons of history and Biblical foundations. And for those stuck in the past, remembering the ‘Living Hope’ that dwells inside us through the presence of the Holy Spirit propels us forward in our ‘on earth as it is in heaven’ directive. Yes, we are called to be a person well-grounded in Biblical principles and forward thinking, always advancing the Kingdom of God.

Too often we can become pessimistic and bitter believing that the world is sinking into the great abyss and that we have nothing to offer but to stand aside and watch it self-destruct. Likewise, we can be overly optimistic, believing everything is going to work out fine so we can just rest and watch the outcome.

But as a believer, my trust is in Jesus Christ and my hope is for a bright future.

I have an integral part to play as my prayers and efforts combine with that of the Body of Christ to be certain that the Gospel is being voiced and the love of Christ is extended to this world.

As such, Shepherd Gate doesn’t take the summer off. Vacation Bible School and camps for kids of all ages, and a community outreach we call the Summer Round-Up and finishing with the musical Anne of Green Gables, we intend to see the Great Commission being exercised here and now. With great hope for tomorrow and appreciation and foundation of our past we ‘press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.’ (Phil. 3:14)